Bharat Tex 2025 Is A Global Platform For Compliance & Sustainability: Vinod Kumar
Vinod Kumar, Managing Director of Hohenstein India & Sri Lanka, shares insights on the company’s role in helping textile and chemical companies achieve global compliance and sustainability through OEKO-TEX certifications. At Bharat Tex 2025, Hohenstein is also expanding its outreach through a newly signed MoU with PDEXCIL to enhance awareness and compliance among its members.
Hohenstein has been at the forefront of textile testing and certification, with OEKO-TEX marking its 75th year in 2024. The journey began with OEKO-TEX Standard 100, a globally recognized certification for textiles, garments and fabrics. Over the years, additional standards such as Eco Passport for dyes and chemicals, STEP for sustainable production, and the recently introduced Organic Certification for organic cotton have strengthened their commitment to quality and sustainability.
“Our certifications cover the entire supply chain – from raw materials to finished products,” says Kumar. “By adhering to stringent OEKO-TEX standards, Indian manufacturers can align with global market expectations and enhance their exports.”
With increasing regulatory demands from the EU, US and Indian markets, compliance has become a critical challenge for textile and chemical manufacturers. Hohenstein’s expertise in international regulations, such as CPSIA in the US and evolving EU consumer protection laws, enables them to assist companies in adapting to changing requirements.
“We continuously evolve our testing parameters and standards,” Kumar explains. “Regular training sessions, awareness programmes and direct industry engagement help companies stay updated on compliance changes and prepare for future regulations.”
As the demand for sustainable and circular textile solutions grows, Hohenstein plays a key role in ensuring chemical safety and responsible manufacturing practices. “Sustainability is no longer an option but a necessity,” Kumar notes. “Our STEP certification evaluates factories on six modules, including chemical management, environmental impact and recyclability, ensuring end-to-end compliance.”
The company’s Eco Passport certification is particularly significant in promoting cleaner chemistry in textile production. “With over 49,000 products listed in the ZDHC Gateway, Eco Passport has become a global benchmark for non-hazardous chemical formulations,” Kumar adds. “By ensuring safe chemistry at the base level, we eliminate compliance risks before production even begins.”
In a major step towards expanding compliance awareness in India, Hohenstein has signed an MoU with PDEXCIL at Bharat Tex 2025. This collaboration aims to equip Indian textile exporters with the necessary knowledge and certifications to compete in international markets.
“Many small and mid-sized companies struggle with meeting global compliance requirements,” Kumar explains. “Through this partnership, we will provide training, awareness programmes and hands-on support to help Indian manufacturers align with international sustainability and quality standards.”
With increasing emphasis on bio-based dyes, circularity and stricter chemical regulations, Kumar believes the industry must proactively adapt to cleaner and greener chemistry. “Regulations will only get stricter, and companies that invest in compliance today will be ahead of the curve,” he says. “By certifying products at the raw material stage, we help manufacturers reduce production failures, lower costs and improve sustainability.”
Hohenstein sees Bharat Tex 2025 as a crucial platform for fostering sustainability and compliance awareness within the textile industry.
“This is one of the biggest initiatives by the Indian government,” Kumar remarks. “Unlike regional fairs, Bharat Tex 2025 brings together global brands, retailers and supply chain stakeholders under one roof. It provides an unparalleled opportunity for Indian manufacturers to showcase their compliance capabilities and attract international buyers.”
